Becker Public Schools close Thursday due to smoke from nearby fire

Becker Public Schools announced that schools will be closed Thursday due to smoke from the nearby fire at Northern Metals.

According to a release from Becker Public Schools, a change in wind direction and information from various agencies led to the school's decision to close.

Fire at Becker recycling plant could last 'several more days,' authorities say

"Smoke can cause irritation or respiratory symptoms, which can be more harmful to sensitive populations such as children or those with asthma," the Becker Police Department reported. "Large fire such as these can produce irritating smoke and gases that may harm people's health if they are exposed to too much smoke or exposed for long periods."

The Becker Schools release went on to state administrators recommend following the directions of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Minnesota Department of Health, which advises those near the fire should shelter in place or move away from the source of the smoke, if possible.

Fire crews have been braving the cold to battle this fire in Becker for more than two days. Becker Public Schools will be closed today because the wind direction of the fire has changed @KSTP pic.twitter.com/WJEWeuPygD

— Ashley Zilka (@ashleyzilka) February 20, 2020